Funding

IT COSTS…..

This is the average over all disciplines: Chinese herbs are the most expensive, followed by Tibetan medicine, Ayurveda,Western medicine, acupuncture then homoeopathy.

INCOME

We rely on charitable donations from individuals (including patients!)and grants from charitable organisations, with a small income from people paying to stay or work at the clinic, fees from patients and ‘gifts in kind’ – in the form of medicines, acupuncture needles or medical equipment.

Overseas and local supporters (some of whom are clinic patients) have also given us a computer and printer, a solar hot water system, two solar panels and two batteries, footstools, blood pressure monitors, a rice cooker, and kitchen utensils.

All overseas volunteers (including our Director) contribute towards costs they incur while at the clinic. ‘Sales’ to volunteers and visitors of food and interpreter fees accounted for 23% of clinic income last year.

PATIENT FEES

We charge a small fee to patients varying from 5nrs (nepali rupees – about 7 cents) for an acupuncture/TCM or homoeopathic treatment, to 50nrs (75 cents US) for a week of Tibetan medicine.

Patient fees accounted for 8% of total clinic income last year.

5 rupees is the cost of a portion of green spinach, and less than the price of a cup of milk tea (at 10 nrs). On average five people a week are unable to afford even 5 nrs, and they receive treatment totally free of charge in whatever discipline most suits their condition.

Our primary principle is that cost should never stand in the way of treatment.

A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

We aim to make the clinic and its project self-supporting in the long term. To do this we train local practitioners, usel solar power where we can and are seeking alternative means of raising money through business enterprises. Currently we are exploring spirulina production, aquaponics, growing medicinal plants and producing an organic cleaning product .

All ideas or support for these projects would be very warmly welcomed!

How You Can Help:

We also depend on volunteer practitioners to serve the healthcare needs of our communities. If you are seeking hands-on work experience and/or skill-sharing in an appreciative and rewarding atmosphere, complete our application today.

We depend on donations and grants to run our clinics, health camps, and programs. Your tax-deductable donation will make it possible for us to continue to serve the healthcare needs of small communities in Nepal.